Roland "Sonny" Osborne

(banjo - 7/1952-9/1952, 5/1953-8/8/1953)

Born: 10/29/1937

As a Blue Grass Boy: Sonny Osborne first joined the Blue Grass Boys in the summer
of 1952. At age 14, he became the youngest musician ever to record with
the band. He left at the end of the summer to return to school but
returned for the summer of 1953.

Recording Sessions: 7/18/1952, 7/26/1952

Before and After: Sonny and his brother Bobby began performing as the Osborne
Brothers in late 1953. They continue to this day, one of the most
successful and longest lived groups in bluegrass. Their rendition of
"Rocky Top" is among the best known songs in bluegrass history. In 2005,
Sonny retired from performing, but continues to build his "The Chief"
banjos.